Measure and Mark 3/8-Inch Dowels

Use a tape measure and pen or marker to mark each 3/8" thickness dowel at 12 inches in length (Image 1). Next, measure and mark each 1/4" wooden dowel at six inches in length (Image 2). Then, measure and mark each 3/16" dowel at four inches in length.

Measure and Mark 3/8-Inch Dowels

Use a tape measure and pen or marker to mark each 3/8" thickness dowel at 12 inches in length.

Insert Top and Side 3/8-Inch Dowels

Thinking of the foam sphere as a clock with 12 hours, insert first dowel at 12:00, the very top center of the sphere (Image 1). Using placement of the first 3/8" dowel as a guide, insert dowels into foam sphere at 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 7:30, 9:00 and 10:30 (Image 2). Note: The bottom 6:00 position is left open for placement atop the tree.

Insert Top and Side 3/8-Inch Dowels

Using placement of the first 3/8" dowel as a guide, insert dowels into foam sphere at 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 7:30, 9:00 and 10:30. Note: The bottom 6:00 position is left open for placement atop the tree.

Insert Front and Back Dowels for Christmas Tree Topper

Secure Dowels With Glue

Remove each 3/8" dowel from foam sphere, then add a dollop of hot glue to its tip (Image 1). Re-insert each 3/8" dowel into its previous position, ensuring a tight, secure fit. Once in place, add hot glue around the space between the foam sphere and the replaced dowel (Image 2). Note: This extra layer of glue will add more stability to each dowel.

Secure Dowels With Glue

Remove each 3/8" dowel from foam sphere, then add a dollop of hot glue to its tip. Re-insert each 3/8" dowel into its previous position, ensuring a tight, secure fit. Once in place, add hot glue around the space between the foam sphere and the replaced dowel. Note: This extra layer of glue will add more stability to each dowel.

Mark Placement Then Insert 1/4-Inch Dowels

Using marker or pen, sketch a triangle directly onto the foam sphere between three of the inserted 3/8" dowels (Image 1). This triangular shape will be used as a guide for the placement of each 1/4" dowel. Next, Insert a 1/4" dowel directly into the marked triangle's center (Image 2). Once a hole has been created, remove dowel, and add glue to its tip then reinsert it. Repeat this step until all 1/4" dowels are in place. Note: Don't forget to leave a dowel-free area on the bottom of the sphere so the topper will better sit atop the tree.

Mark Placement Then Insert 1/4-Inch Dowels

Using marker or pen, sketch a triangle directly onto the foam sphere between three of the inserted 3/8" dowels.

Starburst Tree Topper: Mark Placement, Then Insert Dowels

This triangular shape will be used as a guide for the placement of each 1/4" dowel. Next, Insert a 1/4" dowel directly into the marked triangle's center. Once a hole has been created, remove dowel, and add glue to its tip then reinsert it. Repeat this step until all 1/4" dowels are in place. Note: Don't forget to leave a dowel-free area on the bottom of the sphere so the topper will better sit atop the tree.

Spray-Paint Dowels and Foam Sphere

Once all dowels are securely in place, add two solid coats of spray paint to the foam sphere and dowels. Once base color has dried, add a final coat of glitter spray paint for extra holiday sparkle. Use your thumbs to create an indentation along the dowel-free bottom of the foam sphere, then place on top of tree.

Spray-Paint Dowels and Foam Sphere for Tree Topper

Once all dowels are securely in place, add two solid coats of spray paint to the foam sphere and dowels. Once base color has dried, add a final coat of glitter spray paint for extra holiday sparkle. Use your thumbs to create an indentation along the dowel-free bottom of the foam sphere, then place on top of tree.

Transform foam tree forms into colorful holiday decorations with just felt and hot glue. Layer shades of the same color to create a modern ombre effect or use a solid color for a more traditional look.

Stylishly bring the outdoors in by creating a garland made of small pinecones and red yarn, then drape it over your mantel, Christmas tree, or down the length of the dining table for an understated festive touch.